Kayak-Raft, Hot-Dog, PackRaft,
Ah, water sports! Between the Kayak-Raft, the Hot-Dog and the PackRaft, there's plenty to get lost in, isn't there? But don't panic, dear reader, we're here to clear it all up! Get ready to embark on an action-packed, adrenaline-pumping journey through the tumultuous waves of these extraordinary aquatic activities.
Kayak versus Canoe
Before explaining the main differences between Kayak-Raft, Hot-Dog and PackRaft, let's take a moment to focus on the kayak and the canoe, the boats from which these nautical activities are derived.
Kayaking and Canoeing are two popular water sports that share some similarities, but also have some differences. The main difference is in the design of the boats and how they are used.
THE kayak is propelled using a double paddle. The paddler sits in the boat with the legs stretched out in front of him. Kayaks can be used for whitewater, sea, river or lake navigation. They offer great maneuverability thanks to their short, tapered shape or their integrated rudder.
On the other hand, the canoe is powered by a single paddle. In competition, the paddler is generally on your knees in the boat which is not the case for leisure practice.
Each of these boats can be decked or unbridged depending on the disciplines (slalom, line race, downhill, wave-skiing, polo, sea, etc.).
Kayak-Raft: an individual adventure
THE Kayak-Raftis also known as Air-Kayak, Air-Boat or Inflatable Kayak. It's a bit like a marriage between traditional kayaking and rafting. It's about a ultra-manoeuvrable inflatable boat designed to tackle the wildest rapids. You are alone in control, master of your aquatic destiny. Don't panic, its inflatable and flexible structure cushions contact with the rocks present on the course. It's an adventure for intrepid people who like to push their limits and challenge the elements, even those with no whitewater experience. So, are you ready to take on the challenge?
The Hot Dog: the strength of the team
Now, hold on tight, because we're onto something really exciting: the Hot Dog! No, no, we're not talking about the sausage you'll grill on the barbecue at our Crazy Water base after a busy day on the water. The Hot Dog referred to here is a inflatable kayak, but unlike Kayak-Raft, you are not alone paddling. No, here we play as a team! This is the perfect opportunity to strengthen ties with your friends or family, because you will have to coordinate your movements to tame the rapids. Imagine yourself sailing on the waves, setting yourself fun challenges while admiring the breathtaking landscapes that surround you. That's the spirit of Hot-Dog: action, camaraderie and above all, lots and lots of laughter!
But then why this name, you ask us? Well because the first models designed by Aqua Design/Mooving were red and yellow evoking the essential sandwich. Its behavior on the water, twisting in all directions, is also reminiscent of a sausage.
Small clarification, the Hot-Dog is also available in a version Canoe-Raft. It is also a two-seater inflatable boat, but this time, the athletes are on their knees and have a single paddle. The center of gravity being higher, this boat is considered more unstable than the Hot Dog. However, it offers a better view of the river and a greater range of movement.
👉 Read also : What are the differences between Kayaking and Rafting?
The PackRaft: freedom within reach
Now let's talk about PackRaft. Imagine yourself a ultra-compact kayak, small enough to fit in your backpack, but enough stable and robust to take you to explore the wildest rivers. That’s the magic of PackRaft! With it, you can go on an adventure wherever you want, without worrying about the space it will take up. This boat is perfect for hiking or bivouacing in the mountains or in the jungle. A PackRaft 1 place empty of air weighs just over 2.8 kg and 5 kg in the double version. It is the ideal companion for travelers who want to discover the world from a different perspective, that of water.
Kayak-Raft, Hot-Dog, PackRaft: common points
It is impossible to conclude this article without mentioning the common points that bring these activities together. All of them are practiced in flat water and white water, but they are generally more popular on high-volume rivers like Ubaye.
These three boats are also inflatable, stable and unsinkable. Their unsinkability comes from their self-draining system. You will notice that the bottom of the boat is swollen and dotted with holes which evacuate, by gravity, the water directly into the river.
Dear reader, you are now knowledgeable about the differences between Kayak-Raft, Hot-Dog and PackRaft. Whether you are looking for strong emotions as a team, extreme sensations alone or adventures in total freedom, there is necessarily an option that will satisfy your desire for aquatic escape. So, what are you waiting for? Launch into the waves with Crazy Water?
👉 Read also : 5 benefits of Rafting on your physical and mental health
